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Shockwave Therapy for Tennis Elbow

If a dull ache on the outside of your elbow flares every time you grip, lift, or twist, tennis elbow may be the reason, and it can be surprisingly stubborn. It’s one of the overuse tendon problems people search shockwave therapy for, and one of the conditions we evaluate at Optimal Family Chiropractic.

What Is Tennis Elbow?

Tennis elbow, or lateral epicondylitis, is an overuse injury of the tendons that attach your forearm muscles to the bony bump on the outside of your elbow. Despite the name, most people who develop it never pick up a racquet; it usually comes from repetitive gripping, lifting, or wrist motions at work or around the house.

The result is pain and tenderness on the outer elbow that often travels down the forearm, along with a weaker, less reliable grip. Because the underlying tissue tends to degenerate rather than simply inflame, tennis elbow can drag on for months even when you rest it.

Why Shockwave Therapy Helps

Shockwave therapy uses acoustic (sound) waves to stimulate your body’s own repair response in the treated area. For tennis elbow, that means directing this stimulation into the worn tendon tissue at the elbow to help restart a healing process that has stalled.

At Optimal Family Chiropractic, we use SoftWave, a broad-focused shockwave therapy technology that reaches the tendon at depth without needing the sore spot pinpointed first, which helps because tennis elbow tenderness often spreads along the forearm rather than sitting in one exact place.

Is Shockwave Therapy Right for Your Elbow Pain?

Shockwave therapy for tennis elbow may be worth considering if you’ve experienced:

  • Outer-elbow pain that’s lasted more than a few weeks
  • Pain that worsens when you grip or lift
  • A weaker or less dependable grip
  • Little relief from rest, bracing, or stretching
  • Frustration with pain that keeps interrupting work or hobbies

Every case is different, and a Discovery Session is the best way to find out whether shockwave therapy is a good fit for your specific situation.

What Treatment Feels Like

Sessions typically start away from the sorest area so you can get used to the sensation, which feels like a light tapping. As treatment moves over the elbow tendon, the sensation increases, and many patients compare it to a deep tissue massage.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many sessions does tennis elbow usually need?

For an acute case, most patients need 4-6 treatments. Chronic, long-standing tennis elbow typically needs 8-10 sessions.

How long does a session take?

About 4-6 minutes.

Can I keep using my arm during treatment?

Most patients continue normal daily activity during their treatment plan. Your specific recommendations will depend on the severity of your case.

Is shockwave therapy safe for tennis elbow?

Yes. You may experience some stiffness or an increase in discomfort for about 24 hours after your first treatment.

Who shouldn’t have shockwave therapy for tennis elbow?

Patients with pacemakers cannot receive this therapy. It also can’t be done within 21 days of a cortisone shot, or if you’re currently on blood thinners.

How much does treatment cost?

Cost depends on your condition and treatment plan, generally ranging from $500 to about $1,500 for a package. We offer a $79 Discovery Session to evaluate your specific case first.

Offering a $79 Discovery Session

Wondering if shockwave therapy could relieve your elbow pain? Take advantage of our Discovery Session for just $79!

Get Your Life Back

Put pain in your past and get back to a strong, reliable grip. Call today to book an appointment with Dr. Wilson. CONTACT US »

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Optimal Family Chiropractic | (405) 242-4911